August 2011

We get a lot of questions about text notifications in Textfree from iOS users.

What is a Push Notification?

Textfree uses Apple’s Push Notification Service to send you alerts when you are outside of the app. Your device will show you a popup (and usually play a sound) to let you know that a new message has arrived.

Why don’t I get Push Notifications?

When you first set up Textfree (and when you installed certain updates) we asked if it’s ok to alert you about new messages. Sometimes users decline the option by mistake (you aren’t alone, we’ve accidentally done it too!) This is the most common reason that people don’t get Push Notifications.

How do I turn Push Notifications on?

You’ll need to go into the settings of your iOS device to turn Push Notifications back on. We have a couple of helpful tips below, and detailed instructions on how to turn on notifications on this Support page. There are even screenshots posted to help you out!

Make sure you’re using iOS 3.0 or later and have the latest version of Textfree.

Push Notifications for Textfree won’t work if your device is jailbroken!

Still stuck after following these Support tips?

Click “submit a request” at the top of our Support homepage to send a private question to our Support department!

“AT&T said Thursday that it is getting rid of its lower-tier texting plan that lets people pay $10 a month for 1,000 text messages. Instead, the company plans to offer new subscribers only one plan: unlimited texting for $20 a month. Those who don’t want to fork over $20 can choose to pay for each text, starting at 20 cents a message.”

“AT&T confirmed today that it will slim down its text-messaging service plans, offering customers either unlimited messages for a flat monthly fee, or a pay-per-text service. The company is eliminating its middle-of-the-road option, a plan that allots customers 1,000 text messages for $10 monthly.”

“Planning to buy an AT&T smartphone, either now or after next month’s heavily rumored iPhone 5 announcement? Here’s something you should know: Starting August 21, AT&T will offer only one text-messaging plan: $20 per month for unlimited messages.”

“I recently heard about an app called Textfree with Voice that offers free texting and calling. I checked it out and yes, it’s true. You do get unlimited free texts and to start, 10 free minutes of phone service. If you don’t want to keep adding more minutes to your plan, and more money to your bill, this is a really good alternative.”